Compliance is our Culture

MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- The Unit Compliance Inspection is just around the corner. For more information visit the Air Combat Command Inspector General site and Mountain Home AFB Compliance Culture site. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Staff Sgt. Gina Chiaverotti-Paige)

MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --
Compliance is our culture! What does this mean?

It means we strive for excellence in all we do. I see the results of your dedication to excellence everywhere I look, and I can wholeheartedly say that I am extremely pleased with the Gunfighter professionalism demonstrated everyday while accomplishing the mission. I am proud to be a Gunfighter!

The 366th Fighter Wing will receive its Unit Compliance Inspection from Feb. 13 to 18. Over those six days, Air Combat Command inspectors will evaluate and inspect all groups and units to see how we are performing our day-to-day tasks while complying with laws, executive orders, and applicable policies, regulations, and instructions.

A UCI is one of the single-most significant inspections a base can receive, and the last time we were inspected was in 2006. As we prepare, it is important to remember that a culture of compliance extends far beyond an inspection and reflects our dedication to doing our jobs the right way, every time, all the time.

There are four key components to maintaining unit compliance:

- Follow current checklists to ensure the mission is being completed correctly
- Adhere to common core compliance areas
- Support commander's certified programs
- Focus on special interest items

You are each an expert in your individual areas. If you see a correction or change is necessary, we need you to identify it to your supervisors and UCI representative.

Additionally, we need you to help us identify our best practices so we can highlight them to the inspectors. They are always looking for best practices so they can spread your innovative solutions across the Air Force.

How can we best prepare for a UCI?

First, we need to demonstrate compliance with governing directives at all times. Each of us needs to take an honest and thorough look at our unit checklists and operating instructions to ensure we are doing what we say we are doing.

Our goal is always to be 100% compliant, but I certainly expect no surprises and no repeat write-ups. To help you prepare, we will be conducting three more Unit Compliance Exercises: Nov. 1-5, Dec. 6-10 and Jan. 10-14.

Second, units must be able to show documentation to an outsider that clearly demonstrates that we are accomplishing our mission by applying proper procedures and complying with applicable directives. This will be a fresh look at our Wing from the ACC Inspector General team, so clear documentation and professionalism are key.

Finally, the best thing about a UCI is that it is an open book test and we have all the questions and answers. All we have to do is prove to the inspectors that we do our jobs in accordance with the law and published guidance.

Resources to help you prepare for the UCI can be found through your unit UCI representative, on our website at http://www.mountainhome.af.mil/complianceculture.asp, and on the ACC/IG Inspection Data website at https://igdata.acc.af.mil/login.aspx

We have also created a "Compliance is our Culture" event under our Facebook Events tab at www.facebook.com/mountainhome.af.mil to provide a place where you can ask questions or give recommendations.

Additionally, our friends and counterparts at other bases that have recently completed a UCI from ACC's inspectors are a good source of information. Davis-Monthan AFB just completed their UCI in August, so your counterparts there can help provide recommendations on how to prepare.

As the inspection approaches, we will continue to highlight best practices and give you additional tips. Remember to always maintain a positive attitude, keep in constant communication with your supervisors and UCI representatives, and show everyone how proud we are to be Gunfighters.

I know we will do well...we always do! Gunfighter pride is evident everywhere I look, and I am extremely proud to be your commander.

As we prepare for the UCI, remember our motto: "Ride Hard, Shoot Straight and Always Speak the Truth!"